Change of occupation (COA) benefit

Injured workers who have contracted silicosis, coal miners’ pneumoconiosis, or asbestosis may be entitled to this benefit

Per Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4123.57(D), injured workers who have contracted silicosis, coal miners’ pneumoconiosis, or asbestosis may be entitled to a Change of Occupation (COA) award if they have been medically advised to change jobs (occupations) to decrease further exposure to silica dust, asbestos, or coal dust.

Per ORC 4123.57(E), firefighters and police officers who have contracted a cardiovascular and pulmonary disease (as defined in ORC 4123.68) may be entitled to a COA award if they have been medically advised to change their occupation to decrease further exposure to smoke, toxic gases, chemical fumes, and other toxic vapors.